Photo Gallery

This series of pictures shows the construction of a tataram as it is carried out by the sedentary Tuareg. The photos were taken in November / December 2001 in the area of the confluence of the Tamgak and Zakkat rivers, about 5 km east of Iferouâne - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Women have a special status among the Tuareg. The Targia are very highly respected. They are allowed to choose who and when they marry. The prerequisite is that the chosen one can pay the bride price. Married couples usually live monogamously. The children receive their social status through their mother. While women in Arab Islam still have problems getting divorced today, the Targia can divorce at their own request. In the event of divorce, the children remain with their mother - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The size of the tataram is determined with a circular line. The supporting posts are then dug in at intervals of about one metre. These posts are made from a tree called Apple of Sodom (Calotropis procera), also known as roostertree, a shrub or small tree that grows to a height of 1 to 6 metres. These branches are reinforced and extended with the strong leaf stalk of the palm fronds of the date palm, so that the interior of the new hut is covered - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Whether a tent, hut or house in which the family lives is owned by the woman. Building a house is also part of the Tuareg woman's job. The women have a say and express their opinions: they take an active part in the discussions at the tea ceremonies - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Tying together the posts and leaf stalks of the date palms - Aïr - Niger - 2001

The basic framework with the main beams for the roof is in place - Aïr - Niger - 2001

Now the beams are connected horizontally with further leaf stalks of the date palm to create a solid framework - Aïr - Niger - 2001

At head height, a first ring of branches of the tree called Apple of Sodom (Calotropis procera), also known as roostertree, is now fixed for stabilisation - Aïr - Niger - 2001